“I'm not a chef. But I'm passionate about food - the tradition of it, cooking it, and sharing it.” - Zac Posen
When I can’t dine out at some of the best restaurants Hampton Roads has to offer, I’m making meals at home for my loved ones. Today I’m sharing some of my favorite dishes that I love making in my kitchen. In addition to sharing some of the dishes that I serve up at home, I’m sharing some of the tips and tricks I use in creating my meals.
Cooking is so much fun, but learning and mastering new techniques to curate some tasty dishes for your loved ones is always a blast.
Sweet & Spicy Grilled Chicken Wings
Sweet and spicy grilled chicken wings paired with seasoned chili lime & pepper fries
Chicken wings have always been my go-to comfort food. My husband loves wings, and so do I, and I make this dish at least once a week! Our preferred way of having wings (recipe link), is grilled over charcoal and mesquite wood.
Pro Tip: Marinate your wings for 24 hours for the best flavor. Don’t be afraid to use a variety of seasonings to layer the meat perfectly. Paprika, Seasoned Salt, Black Pepper, Garlic, and Red Pepper, are just a few ingredients I use for my overnight marinade.
Chicken Milanese
Chicken Milanese: fried chicken cutlet, on a bed of tomatoes, avocados, lemon vinaigrette, arugula and cabbage slaw, topped with fresh cracked black peppercorn
Chicken Milanese is a dish I love making at home. The crispy fried chicken cutlet, served over an array of delicious veggies tossed in a lemon vinaigrette sauce is the absolute best. To top off the dish you can melt mozzarella cheese over the chicken, or leave it plain (pictured above).
Pro Tip: After dredging the chicken in breadcrumbs, let the cutlet sit in the fridge for about 30 minutes. This will help the breadcrumbs set properly and not fall off of the cutlet, before pan-frying.
Sautéed Kale & Bacon Bits
Kale sautéed in fresh lemon juice & olive oil, topped with hickory bacon bits
I love cooking with fresh veggies, and kale is no exception. It is so important to balance out your plate, and my sautéed kale is one of the veggies I cook several times a week!
Pro Tip: Add fresh lemon juice when sautéing your kale, it totally brightens up the vegetable, and enhances the flavor!
Pesto Naan Flatbread
Pesto naan flatbread garnished with fresh tomatoes, cracked black peppercorn, and oregano
Pizza is my love language, and I began experimenting with different flatbreads to create at home. When I was unable to get to one of my fave pizza shops, this recipe was a lifesaver. Pesto is the absolute best, and when it's paired with fresh mozzarella and crisp tomatoes - it is the perfect combo! Alas, my Pesto Naan Flatbread (recipe link) was born, and it's one of my favorite quick meals to make at home during the weeknight.
Pro Tip: Put the naan in the oven for a few minutes prior to putting any toppings on it first. This will ensure the naan is extra crispy!
BLT Croissant Sandwich
BLT Croissant: kale, tomatoes, cabbage, avocado, bacon, and a homemade spicy remoulade sauce
There is nothing like a delicious BLT, but putting it on a croissant, is next level. Also, I absolutely love layering a variety of veggies and flavors onto my sandwich. Avocado, kale, tomatoes, and cabbage, all provide a crunch and balance of flavor to the dish. Don’t be afraid to experiment with a few different ingredients to elevate your plate.
Pro Tip: Make your own spicy mayo sauce, and switch it up from the traditional mayonnaise used on a sandwich. This will really add some heat to the sandwich!
What are some of your favorite dishes you love to cook at home? Also, what tips or tricks do you use in the kitchen? Share below!
XO, Analise